5 Ways to Celebrate Christmas as a Tourist in Queensland
Spending Christmas in Queensland? You’re in for a unique holiday experience!
With its sunny weather, beautiful scenery, and diverse culture, Queensland offers a mix of tropical and traditional Christmas festivities, making it a perfect place to create some unforgettable memories. From beach barbecues to snorkeling adventures to Christmas cruises, the holidays in Queensland may be different, but they’re never boring.
Here are 5 fantastic ways to celebrate Christmas this year in the Sunshine State and have the holiday of your life!
Hit the Beach for Carol Services
Singing carols on a beautiful beach with your toes in the sand? Yes, please! If you’ve only ever sung Christmas carols around your neighborhood in the falling snow, singing while enjoying the warm ocean breeze may seem a little odd, but trust us on this – it makes for lasting memories. Watch for events like the “Carols by Candlelight” in Surfers Paradise or the “Carols on the Beach” in Byron Bay for a memorable Christmas Eve.
Enjoy Christmas On a Cruise
If you want to truly spice up your Christmas celebration this year, try a Christmas cruise. Cruise operators in Queensland roll out special Christmas-themed cruises that offer not only fantastic sea views but delicious food and great entertainment.
Whether you plan on sailing the aquamarine waters of the Great Barrier Reef or gliding down the Brisbane River, you’ll have the time of your life on these indulgent cruises: you’ll enjoy a sumptuous Christmas feast, have top-notch entertainment, plus stunning coastal scenery.
Try the Local Holiday Specialties
No Christmas celebration is complete without indulging in some traditional, mouthwatering dishes. Queensland’s warm weather allows for some unique culinary delights, so be sure to have your fair share of holiday specialties while you’re here.
A local favorite is seafood barbecue (prawns are a Christmas staple!) right on the beach, which we highly recommend. And if you haven’t tried pavlova, Christmas is the perfect time to do so. It’s a delightful dessert made with a crispy meringue base, topped with fresh cream and seasonal fruits like mangoes, pineapple, and cherries.
Experience an Outdoorsy Christmas Day
In Australia, Christmas Day is all about embracing the great outdoors. The locals often head to the beach to celebrate, and you can join the fun on and enjoy a picnic while basking in the sunshine. Most people are very friendly, so even if you’re alone, you’re guaranteed not to be for long. It’s also a time when a barbecue is a must, so good food is also guaranteed. And don’t forget to pack your swimwear because taking a refreshing dip in the ocean is often part of the tradition!
Deck the Halls – Queensland Style
Queensland takes Christmas decorations seriously, and it shows. Most neighborhoods are adorned with twinkling lights and festive displays so now is the time to stroll through different streets and enjoy your surroundings. Suburbs like Ashgrove and Stafford in Brisbane go all out, turning their streets into dazzling wonderlands. The Surfers Paradise Foreshore is another must-visit spot for a visual feast of lights and decorations.
Extra Tips for an Unforgettable Christmas in Queensland
- Send Your Holiday Cards: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and festivities of the season, but don’t forget to spread some holiday cheer back home! Sending out holiday photo cards is a timeless tradition, so take a moment to create a card with a tropical theme, write down your heartfelt wishes, and pop it in the mail. Your loved ones are sure to appreciate the thought, plus you’ll be sharing your unique holiday experience with them.
- Shop, Shop, Shop: Shopping is a must during the holiday season, so make sure you visit the markets, such as the Eumundi Markets, for unique gifts and souvenirs. Support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind presents for your loved ones. Queensland’s arts and crafts scene is incredibly rich and diverse so shop to your heart’s content!
- Capture the Memories: Queensland’s scenic landscapes are perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots. From stunning beaches to lush rainforests, this place is a photographer’s dream. Even if you’re not much of a photographer but just a social media enthusiast, with nature like this, your Christmas album is guaranteed to be a work of art!
